Government Internships Aren't Just for Aspiring Politicians

Ever wondered what it's really like to work for the government? Get a behind-the-scenes look at how decisions are made by interning for a national, state or local government office. And government interns aren't just for policy wonks and president wannabes. While positions in fields like advertising, marketing and publishing are hard to come by today, applicants who turn their attention to internships with government agencies may have an easier time finding openings. Unlike many industries that are struggling during the current economic times, the government is still looking for qualified candidates, and not just those who want to be the next great political figure.

Several government agencies and lobbying organizations across the country feature internship programs for students of all ages, including the Rhode Island State Government, Arms Control Association and the Connecticut Judicial Branch, just to name a few. Interns at these and other such organizations get the chance to attend Congressional hearings, work on political campaigns and even perform litigation. For any student interested in applying to law school, an internship in one of these prestigious offices is bound to get you noticed.

If law isn't your thing, positions are also available with parks departments, correctional facilities and international embassies. With responsibilities as varied as handling press relations, designing websites or analyzing budgets, there is bound to be a position that suits every student's interest. Plus, you don't have to be a political science major to score one of these top internships, nor must you plan to pursue a career in a government agency. Working in analytical chemistry for the FBI is great experience for a career in the sciences, drafting press releases for the French Embassy Press and Communication Office can be your entry into the PR industry and assisting economists at the Federal Reserve is a great launch pad for a career in finance.

But if you're considering an internship at a government agency or NGO, you'd better start applying soon. Government internship programs often have early deadlines, so start your search in the fall before the summer you plan to intern and be sure to get your application in on time. To help begin your search, below is a list of some top government internship programs whose deadlines are fast approaching.

-Posted by Rebecca Zissou